The collaboration sees the Woodbastwick-based brewery extend its range of eight ales and one lager and Norfolk Cordial reach a larger network of pubs through increased distribution of its six cordials.

It comes after the two companies met at the Eastern Daily Press’ Food & Drink Awards two years ago.

Rupert Farquharson, managing director of Woodforde’s said: “30pc of people who visit pubs enjoy a soft drink instead of an alcoholic one, so we believe there is huge opportunity for well-presented, soft drinks for adults.

“Woodforde’s uses the best quality Norfolk malted barley in its beers and Norfolk Cordial sources soft fruit from Norfolk farms, so we share the same passion for high quality ingredients and an eagerness to support local producers. This partnership can only complement our range of award winning beers.”

John McFarlane and Georgie Rodwell formed Roughton-based Norfolk Cordial after selling their homemade elderflower drinks in their local pub.

Mr McFarlane said: “Norfolk Cordial is very excited to be partnering up with such an iconic Norfolk brand. We both pride ourselves on quality, sustainability and taking an ethical approach to doing business, so there is a great synergy between the two companies.

“We hope to see a marked rise in the number of establishments serving our cordials throughout the region in addition to increasing the efficiency of our operations due to utilising Woodforde’s distribution and sales structure.”

• Do you have a business story? Contact business writer Ben Woods on 01603 772 426 or email ben.woods@archant.co.uk

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